An intrauterine device (IUD) is a highly effective form of long-acting reversible contraception. It is a small, T-shaped medical device inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. While an IUD offers convenient and reliable birth control, attempting to remove it yourself is strongly discouraged and can lead to significant health risks.
The Dangers of Self-Removal
Attempting to remove an IUD without medical supervision carries substantial risks due to the delicate anatomy involved and the specific design of the device. One significant danger is incomplete removal, where only a portion of the IUD is extracted, leaving fragments inside the uterus. This can lead to ongoing bleeding, pain, or an increased risk of infection, potentially requiring further medical intervention to retrieve the remaining pieces. The non-sterile conditions of a self-removal can introduce bacteria into the uterus, leading to severe infections like pelvic inflammatory disease, which can impact future fertility.
Another serious complication is uterine perforation, which occurs when the IUD or an instrument used during self-removal punctures the wall of the uterus. This is a medical emergency that can cause internal bleeding and may necessitate surgery to repair the damage. Excessive bleeding and pain are also common because the cervix and uterus contain many blood vessels and nerve endings, making them sensitive to trauma. Furthermore, the IUD’s arms are designed to expand once inside the uterus to hold it in place, and pulling the strings without proper technique can cause these arms to snag or damage the uterine lining. An IUD can also become embedded in the uterine wall over time, making self-removal even more dangerous and difficult.
Why Professional Removal is Necessary
Only a healthcare professional can safely remove an IUD due to its complex design and the specific anatomy of the uterus. The IUD’s flexible arms are crucial for keeping the device securely positioned. When a professional removes the IUD, they employ a specific technique that causes these arms to fold inward, allowing for a smooth and gentle extraction.
The uterus is a muscular organ with a unique and often angled shape, making it impossible to visualize or access properly without specialized medical tools. Healthcare providers use instruments like a speculum to gently open the vaginal canal and visualize the cervix, where the IUD strings are typically visible. They also use sterile instruments to grasp the strings, ensuring the procedure is performed in a hygienic manner to prevent infection. The medical expertise of a professional allows them to assess the IUD’s position, identify any potential complications such as embedding, and perform the removal without causing harm to the uterine lining or cervix.
What Happens During a Professional IUD Removal
A professional IUD removal is typically a quick and straightforward procedure, usually lasting only a few minutes. The process often begins with a brief consultation where the healthcare provider discusses the patient’s reasons for removal and answers any questions. The patient then lies on an examination table, similar to a routine gynecological exam. A speculum is inserted into the vagina to gently hold the walls open, allowing the provider to clearly see the cervix and the IUD strings.
Once the strings are visible, the doctor uses a specialized, sterile forceps to grasp them firmly. They then apply a gentle, steady pull, allowing the IUD to slide out of the uterus. Most patients report feeling only a brief cramping sensation, similar to menstrual cramps, as the IUD exits. This discomfort is usually transient and resolves quickly after the device is removed. Following the removal, some patients may experience light bleeding or spotting for a day or two.